Galápagos Island Hopping - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main focus of this Galápagos Island Hopping tour?

  This tour focuses on maximizing your time exploring the Galápagos Islands, including hiking, snorkeling, and interacting with the amazing unique wildlife, while making travel between islands as easy as possible.

• Are international flights included in the trip cost?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for check-in times and baggage allowances.

• Are local flights within Ecuador and to/from the Galápagos Islands included?

  Yes, all internal flights (Quito to Baltra return) are included. The baggage allowance for these domestic flights is a maximum of one piece of luggage per person weighing 23 kilograms (50 pounds), plus one carry-on piece weighing 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in hotels for 6 nights and a G Adventures-supported community guesthouse for 2 nights. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in the Galápagos. The accommodation on Floreana Island is a simple lodge with potentially fewer amenities due to its remote location.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• Are there any age restrictions for joining the trip?

  Travelers must be 18 to join unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. It involves activities like hiking up the Sierra Negra Volcano, walking to Las Grietas, and various water-based activities like snorkeling and kayaking, which can be physically demanding at times, especially in high temperatures or at altitude.

• Is there an extra charge for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers do not have to pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex.

• What modes of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation includes plane, speed boat, van, pickup truck, local bus, and panga. Please be aware that speedboat rides between islands can be quite rough, especially from July to December, so bring motion sickness medication if needed.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping expected on this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of the tour. It is an expression of satisfaction for those who have assisted you. A guideline for tipping your CEO is 5-10 USD per traveler per day.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  This trip includes 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and will result in expulsion from the trip. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the tour operator's philosophy.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency is USD. Credit cards and debit cards (Visa widely accepted) are useful for cash advances, but do not rely on them as your only source of money. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, in good condition, as larger or damaged bills can be hard to exchange.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Useful resources and information are available on the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• Who will be leading the group?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide, certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority, will lead the group in the Galápagos Islands. A local G Adventures Rep will assist in Quito.

• Will I get my own room?

  If you have booked the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in hotels for 6 nights and a G Adventures-supported community guesthouse for 2 nights. Hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Galapagos, and accommodation on Floreana Island is simpler due to its remote location.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses globally.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met at the airport within 30 minutes, you should take a taxi to your joining hotel. For any issues preventing you from starting your trip, contact the emergency numbers provided in your dossier as soon as possible.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  It's recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Always use good judgment during free time and when selecting optional activities. For safety in cities at night, stay in small groups and use taxis.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  The modes of transportation include plane, speed boat, van, pickup truck, local bus, and panga. Please note that speed boat rides between islands can be quite rough.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include hiking up Sierra Negra volcano, observing flamingos at an isolated lagoon, marveling at the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, and staying at a G Adventures-supported community guesthouse in Floreana.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include the Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Teleférico in Quito, Cotopaxi Volcano - Full Day, Loberia Snorkelling Excursion in Floreana, Swimming, Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling, Wall of Tears Bike Visit, Los Tuneles Snorkelling in Isabela, Concha de Perla snorkelling in Isabela, Surfing lessons in Puerto Ayora, and Tortuga Bay Kayaking in Santa Cruz.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. As a guideline, a per traveler tip of 5-10 USD per day for your CEO is appreciated if you felt they did an outstanding job.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• Is there an extra cost for traveling solo?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• What are the health considerations I should know before traveling?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations. You should carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers, as medical facilities may be remote. The adventure travels to high altitude in Quito (over 2,440 meters / 8,000 feet); everyone reacts differently to altitude.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all internal flights (Quito to Baltra return) are included. The baggage allowance for domestic flights to/from the Galapagos is a maximum of one piece of luggage per person weighing 23 kilograms (50 pounds), plus one carry-on piece weighing 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included. Please confirm with your booking agent for specific details.

• What safety and security precautions should I be aware of?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave expensive jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is advised. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. Exercise good judgment during free time, especially at night (travel in groups and use taxis). Water-based activities carry inherent risks and should only be undertaken with a guide.

• What are the company's rules regarding illegal drugs and sex tourism?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and are against the law. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against company philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any traveler found to be in violation of these rules.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  Your group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide who is certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority while in the Galápagos Islands, and a local G Adventures Representative in Quito.

• Will I have opportunities to do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. It is recommended to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What currency is used, and what should I know about money and credit cards?

  The local currency is the US Dollar. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though you may need to try multiple ATMs. It is advisable to carry USD cash in denominations smaller than $100, as larger or worn bills can be hard to exchange. Be aware that credit card purchases may incur a 5-10% fee.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include the Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Teleférico in Quito, Loberia Snorkelling Excursion on Floreana Island, Swimming, Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling, Wall of Tears Bike Visit, and Los Tuneles Snorkelling on Isabela Island, Concha de Perla snorkelling on Isabela, Surfing lessons in Puerto Ayora, and Tortuga Bay Kayaking on Santa Cruz Island. Costs for these activities vary.

• What are the main highlights and included activities of this tour?

  Highlights include hiking up the active Sierra Negra volcano, observing flamingos at an isolated lagoon, marveling at the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, and staying at a G Adventures-supported community guesthouse in Floreana. Included activities feature a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a walk to Las Grietas, a visit to the Flamingo Lagoon, the Sierra Negra volcano hike, a visit to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, and a hike to Tortuga Bay.

• Are there any health considerations for traveling to the Galápagos and Quito?

  You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations. It's recommended to carry a first aid kit. Please note that Quito is at a high altitude (over 8,000 feet), and individuals react differently to altitude. Consult your physician for preparation advice.